Awacs over Europe

The E-3 airborne warning and control system (AWACS) is built by Boeing Defense & Space Group. The role of the E-3 is to carry out airborne surveillance, and command, control and communications (C3) functions for both tactical and air defence forces.

In the USA the aircraft carries the designation E-3 AWACS. The UK designation is E-3 Sentry AEW (airborne early warning) and the French designation is E-3 SDA.

The first E-3 entered service with the United States Air Force (USAF) in March 1977. Deliveries were concluded in June 1984. A total of 33 aircraft are in service with the USAF, seven with the UK Royal Air Force, four with the French Air Force and five with Saudi Arabia. E-3 deliveries to the UK began in March 1991 and were completed in May 1992. Deliveries to the Royal Saudi Air Force commenced in June 1986 and concluded in September 1987. The French Air Force received the first E-3 in May 1991 and the last aircraft in February 1992.